6729 Lake Rd,
Windsor, WI 53598

Dental Sealants

Detailed Overview of Dental Sealants and their Benefits

Discover the protective shield you and your child's smile deserves with dental sealants at Windsor Family Dental. Our dental sealants provide a reliable defense against cavities by sealing the vulnerable surfaces of molars and premolars from decay. As an added barrier against plaque buildup and acids, tooth sealants promote long-term oral health in patients.

Contact us for a consultation on dental sealants, or book your appointment online.

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What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are a preventative dental procedure where a tooth-colored acrylic “coating” is painted onto the tooth's biting surface to seal the tooth from decay caused by plaque and acids. The coating seals the tooth's deep grooves, acting as a barrier and protecting enamel unreachable by brushing and flossing. Dental sealants are typically applied to molars and premolars, and the procedure only takes a few minutes to seal each tooth.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants provide a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of back teeth, preventing bacteria and food particles from causing cavities. They are durable and typically last about five years, offering extended protection with proper care. Sealants are cost-effective, being less expensive than treating cavities and saving money on future dental procedures. The application process is quick, painless, and can be completed during a routine dental visit. Additionally, sealants are beneficial for all ages, including children, teenagers, and adults without existing decay or fillings.

Potential Downsides of Dental Sealants

However, sealants need to be replaced every five years, necessitating regular dental check-ups. They are not suitable for teeth with existing decay or fillings. If applied incorrectly, sealants can trap bacteria, leading to cavities. There is also a rare risk of allergic reactions to the sealant materials, so it is important to discuss any known allergies with your dentist.

Dental sealants: tooth colored acrylics protect enamel

Are dental sealants worth it?

The dentist’s judgment is in: Yes, Dental sealants are worth it! Dental sealant procedures are painless, safe, effective, and affordable.

The Dental Sealant Procedure

At Windsor Family Dental, applying dental sealants is a quick and painless process that can be completed during a routine visit. Here’s what you can expect:

Preparation

  • Cleaning: Your dentist or hygienist will thoroughly clean your teeth to remove any plaque, food particles, and bacteria.
  • Drying: Your teeth will be dried, and a piece of cotton gauze will be placed to keep the area dry.
  • Etching: An acid etching solution is applied to the chewing surfaces to roughen the enamel, helping the sealant bond properly.
  • Rinsing and Drying: Your teeth will be rinsed and dried again.

Application

  • Painting the Sealant: The liquid sealant material is painted onto the tooth surfaces, filling the pits and grooves.
  • Curing: A special curing light is used to harden the sealant material in a few seconds.

After the Dental Sealant Procedure

You will be able to eat and drink immediately after the dental sealant procedure. Sealants typically last about five years but can provide longer protection with proper care. Your dentist will check them during regular visits and recommend reapplication if needed.

How Long Does It Take for Dental Sealants to Dry?

Dental sealants typically dry quickly, with resin-based sealants hardening in 30 seconds to 1 minute when exposed to a special curing light. In contrast, glass ionomer sealants take longer, usually requiring about 2 to 5 minutes to set. Patients can generally resume normal activities right away, but we recommend avoiding hard or sticky foods for at least 30 minutes to ensure the sealant bonds effectively and provides optimal protection against tooth decay.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants can last up to 10 years before a reapplication is necessary. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing. Your or your child's dentist will check the teeth sealants for chipping and wear during each dental checkup. A dentist or dental hygienist may repair a sealant by adding more dental sealant material.

Dental Sealants for Kids

Dentists know – kids love sugar. Dentists also know – kids don’t love brushing their teeth. Sealants are a fast and easy way to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. Cavities in baby teeth lead to cavities in permanent teeth and a lifetime of oral health problems. Set your child up for success by preventing cavities with dental sealants.

Do adults need dental sealants?

Adults also need dental sealants. You never outgrow the risk of developing cavities. Sealants may be recommended for teeth without cavities but with pits and grooves. If a tooth is experiencing staining or mild decay, a sealant may be suggested.

At what age are dental sealants most effective?

Dental sealants are most effective for children between ages 5 and 14. The American Dental Association recommends applying sealants when a child's first molar appears, typically around age 6. A second set of sealants can be applied when permanent molars emerge, usually between ages 11 and 14. It’s best to consult your dentist once your child's first molar appears for optimal protection. At Windsor Family Dental, we provide exceptional dental services to communities throughout Dane County such as Madison, DeForest and Sun Prairie.

If you or your child need dental sealants, contact Windsor Family Dental to schedule a dentist appointment. Windsor Family Dental regularly serves patients out of Dane County and Columbia County in cities like Windsor, DeForest, Arlington, Waunakee, Sun Prairie, Madison and the surrounding areas.

Our restorative treatments include:

Fillings Crowns Bridges Extraction Root Canals Dentures Inlays and Onlays

Dental Sealants Frequently Asked Questions

 

What are dental sealants and how do they work?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They create a barrier that prevents food and bacteria from getting trapped in the grooves, reducing the risk of cavities.

Who should consider getting dental sealants?

Sealants are recommended for children and teenagers as their permanent molars and premolars come in. Adults without existing decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit.

How long do dental sealants last?

Dental sealants typically last about five years but can last longer with proper care. Regular dental check-ups are necessary to monitor and reapply them if needed.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with dental sealants?

Sealants need to be properly applied to avoid trapping bacteria. They are not suitable for teeth with existing decay or fillings. Rarely, allergic reactions to the sealant materials can occur. Discuss any known allergies with your dentist.

What is the process of applying dental sealants?

The application involves cleaning the teeth, drying them, applying an acid etching solution, rinsing, drying again, painting the sealant material, and curing it with a light. The process is quick and painless, done during a routine dental visit.

 

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Ann B.

I always enjoy my teeth cleaning with Emily. You can tell from her attitude that she really cares about her patients. She really is the best. Everyone is helpful at Windsor Family Dental. I highly recommend them.

Nick Z.

Dana, my hygienist, did a fantastic job. With over 25 years of experience, she skillfully engaged in conversation with me while working on my teeth, making the cleaning process pleasant and comfortable. I also had the pleasure of meeting Kristi, Dr. DeMatthew's assistant, who was friendly and personable. Dr. DeMatthew herself was articulate in explaining the details of my dental health, making sure I understood everything clearly. Overall, my experience at Windsor Family Dental was wonderful, and I highly recommend Dr. DeMatthew and her staff.

Kaci K.

I had to switch dental clinics because of insurance reasons and I am happy to have landed at Windsor Family Dental. The staff here is great and I love Dr. Zhao, she addressed a concern that I’ve had for years and put my mind at ease. Everyone made me feel comfortable and after my visit my lifelong dread of dental appointments has vanished.

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Windsor Family Dental
Optimal Wellness Plan

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Additional Benefits

12% OFFAdditional Treatment

1 panoramic or full mouth x-ray when indicated

* Invisalign, whitening gels and strips, and resale items excluded from the 12% discount

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Adult (14 years & older)

$39/mo Save $422

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Child (13 years & under)

$34/moSave $398

Includes

2 Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 3x per year

$67/moSave $663

Includes

3 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

Perio - 4x per year

$82/moSave $689

Includes

4 Periodontal Maintenance Cleanings

2 Regular Exams

2 Fluoride Treatments

Routine X-rays

1 Emergency Visit (includes exam & x-ray)

One-time enrollment fee of $99 for existing patients, new patients $149. Enrollment fee waived under annual membership option.

THIS IS NOT DENTAL INSURANCE. Cannot be combined with other insurance or discount plans. Membership plan is specific to one person and cannot be transferred. Covered services not used within the specified time period will not be carried over or transferred. Services will be provided at this location only. Membership plan will auto-renew each year on the renewal date. If a patient presents with periodontal infection, a personalized treatment plan will be presented at an additional cost. The perio plan is strictly for preventive maintenance care.

6729 Lake Rd,
Windsor, WI 53598

Fax: 608-846-2493

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